Prin QA Engineer

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems produces high-quality, high performance gun systems for a broad spectrum of land, sea, and air applications. Our products are built on decades of experience and knowledge in innovative design and development and the latest manufacturing technologies. We are an industry leader in the development and production of single and multi-barrel gatling guns, individual crew-served weapons, ammunition handling systems, shipboard defense systems, gun pods and loaders.

The Principal QA Engineer: Develops and implements methods and procedures for process control, process improvement, testing and inspection to ensure that the products are free of flaws and function as designed | Designs and installs sophisticated testing equipment and performs product testing and analysis to maintain quality levels and minimize defects and failure rates | Analyzes reports and defective products to determine trends and recommend corrective actions | Collaborates with supplier representatives on quality problems, ensures that effective corrective actions are implemented and contributes to supplier quality improvement programs

Establishes quality standards for products and processes and suggest modifications meant to prevent defects in components or final products.
• Works closely with cross-functional teams, including product design, product management, and production, to identify and mitigate quality risks.
• Audits production processes, raw materials, or suppliers/vendors to ensure that established quality standards are met.
• Conducts root cause analysis for defects, non-conformities, or other quality failures.
• May be responsible for ensuring compliance with formal external quality standards, such as ISO 9001.

Required Education and Experience: Associates Degree and 8-10 years' experience OR Equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience

Preferred Education: Bachelor's Degree

Discipline/Major: Quality or Engineering degree preferred

Skills, certifications, abilities and attributes:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in statistical analysis tools and techniques, including Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Design of Experiments (DOE).
• Experience with root cause analysis methodologies (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram).
• Ability to implement effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Knowledge of various testing, inspection, and validation methods.
• Experience in designing and overseeing testing protocols to ensure product quality.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements including Mil-Std and ASME standards.
• Ability to ensure compliance and prepare for internal and external audits.
• Skills in supplier evaluation, auditing, and performance management.
• Experience developing and implementing supplier improvement plans.
• Proficiency in maintaining detailed and accurate quality records and documentation.
• Experience in generating and presenting quality reports to stakeholders.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to lead and develop quality teams.
• Experience in training and mentoring junior engineers and technicians.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams, management, and external stakeholders.
• Strong customer service orientation with the ability to address and resolve quality-related customer issues.
• Experience in interfacing with customers to understand their quality requirements and ensure satisfaction.
• Familiarity with quality engineering software and tools (e.g., Minitab, QDA, SPC software).
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and standards.
• Ability to adapt to changing environments and requirements.
• Willingness to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in quality engineering.